By Elizabeth Hunter via SWNS
A five-year-old lost an eye after a routine test found a “golf ball-sized” tumor.
Riley Thompson was diagnosed with an optic nerve glioma after a routine preschool eye test revealed a golf-ball-sized cancerous tumor pressing against his eye.
The diagnosis came in February, with an emergency surgery taking place in May to remove the tumor.
Due to the tumor’s size and positioning, surgeons were forced to remove his eye – but Riley from Renfrewshire in Scotland is recovering well and is tumor-free.
Mom Nicole, said: “I noticed a regular squint which led to Riley’s eyes getting checked out by an optometrist at pre-school, then by a series of doctors at the Royal Hospital for Children in Glasgow.
”Although I’m a nurse, I had no idea he was blind in his right eye, let alone that it was due to something more dangerous.
“I see him every day, so I didn’t notice any real change and he never said anything or complained about his sight.
“My heart stopped when I saw a golf ball-sized lump just behind Riley’s eyeball – instantly I knew it must be a tumor.”
Despite experiencing several complications after surgery, including a spinal fluid leak from his removed eye socket, Riley has remained resilient.
Riley started primary school in September, and has been enjoying playing Lego, practicing taekwondo, and spending time with younger sister Isla, 3.
Nicole added: “She’s always checking on Riley to make sure he’s OK. It’s been tough for her to understand what’s happening, but she’s been so thoughtful and caring.”
Now, determined to raise awareness about brain tumors, the Thompson family are set to run, walk, cycle and jog 99 miles throughout November to raise money for Brain Tumor Research – and they have raised over £1,000 so far.
“Riley could have lost much more than an eye to this tumor-like so many other children have, so it’s important we do our part to raise funds and awareness of the incredible work that Brain Tumor Research does,” said Nicole.
“We’re committed to walking the 99 Miles in November challenge as a family—to help reach the ultimate goal of finding a live-saving
cure for all brain tumors.
“Thousands are diagnosed with brain tumors every year, and I urge all parents that if you notice anything unusual, get your child checked out. It could save their life.”
Ashley Williams, Community Development Manager at Brain Tumor Research, said:”Riley’s story is a heartbreaking reminder of the devastating impact brain tumors can have, not just on the individual but on their entire family.
“Despite the challenges, Riley’s bravery and his family’s resilience show the strength it takes to face this cruel disease.
“But the fact remains, stories like Riley’s are all too common. That’s why we desperately need more investment in researching brain tumors.”
